Security ramped up in Bengal's Murshidabad as Waqf Act protests turn violent, several vehicles torched

Security has been ramped up in West Bengal's Murshidabad following fresh protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act on Saturday, reported TOI.

The demonstration turned violent as protesters torched several vehicles. Visuals from the area showed flames and smoke billowing from burning vehicles as security forces were deployed to restore order.

Bengal Police said that the situation in the Suti and Samserganj areas of Jangipur was now “under control”. large contingents of police have been deployed in sensitive pockets of the district.


The fresh wave of unrest follows violent protests on Tuesday at Umarpur in the same district, where nine people, including four policemen, were injured during clashes.


Protesters had blocked NH-12 in Jangipur demanding withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Act. They pelted stones at the police and set two police vehicles ablaze.

“Strict action will be taken against those who resorted to violence. Legal action will be initiated against rumour mongers trying to spread misinformation,” the police had said in a statement.

Governor C V Ananda Bose had condemned the violence and demanded accountability from the state government.

“Attempts to disturb the law and order situation should be put down with an iron hand. The peaceful passage of Ram Navami festivities shows the camaraderie among the people of Bengal and the competence of the administration. Any attempt to frustrate that needs to be curbed,” he said.

The BJP had accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of failing to maintain law and order. “West Bengal, once safeguarded by Syama Prasad Mookerjee, is now bleeding under Mamata Banerjee,” said state BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar, labelling her “India’s most failed CM”.

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, which triggered the protests, was passed by the parliament last week.